The video above takes you on a walking tour of Second Ward Houston, one of the most historically layered neighborhoods in the city. Located just east of downtown and south of Buffalo Bayou, this area dates back to the 1840s as one of Houston's four original designated neighborhoods. It's arguably the oldest part of Houston, and it carries a deep cultural identity that's shifted over time — from German American settlers to one of the first Jewish American barrios in the country, and eventually into the predominantly Hispanic neighborhood it is today. The area is also known as Segundo Barrio, and it remains one of the oldest Hispanic neighborhoods in a major Texas city not located along the border.
History and Character of Second Ward
A walk along Harrisburg Boulevard reveals a mix of 1920s-era industrial buildings and newer modern apartments and lofts. Some of those older structures sit empty, while others have been repurposed for community spaces, art, and residential lofts. Gentrification has reshaped parts of the neighborhood since around 2006, when townhomes and lofts started appearing for the first time. The proximity to downtown Houston is driving a lot of that change, but the neighborhood still holds onto its cultural roots. There's a place called Champ Burger that's been serving food here since 1963, and a Mexican restaurant called El Techo that's worth stopping into for a meal.
Where Can You Find Live Music in Second Ward Houston?
There are several spots in and around Second Ward where you can catch live music, ranging from DIY venues to long-running neighborhood bars. Here are the ones highlighted in the video:
- Equal Parts Brewing — A brewery in Second Ward that occasionally hosts events with live bands
- Neighbors — A spot in the area advertising live jazz music
- House of J — A DIY music and art venue for local and touring artists with free entry, known for its charmingly tilted garage
- White Swan Live — A venue dating back to 1937 that features a variety of local bands
- Bohemios — Self-described as the East End's favorite spot for coffee, food, craft beer, live music, and local art
- St. Bernard's Pub — A neighborhood bar where Ralphie and the RC's were recently playing honky tonk music
David Bridwell also made his way across town to Coxs, where a two-day event called the Movable Festival featured a full lineup of live music. He performed at the festival himself, playing original songs to close out the visit. Between the neighborhood's deep history, the food, and the growing number of music spots in the East End, Second Ward is a part of Houston that rewards a slow walk and an open schedule.